ACCORHOTELS regional head Simon McGrath has applauded the Northern Territory Government’s $103 million tourism stimulus package, saying a strong investment pipeline is critical to support the industry’s “tier-one” growth prospects for the Australian economy.

THE Accommodation Assoc of Australia’s (AAA) ceo Richard Munro has highlighted the impact global internet-based companies are having on competition at a Parliamentary Committee hearing this week in Canberra.

INCREASED business confidence and improving economic conditions have led to upbeat forecasts for the international business travel sector, with the latest American Express Global Business Travel Forecast tipping increases in airfares and hotel rates in 2018.

ALLIANCE Airlines has struck a three-year agreement with Japan’s JTB Corporation to provide air charter services in Australia, backed by a destination campaign aimed at boosting levels of Japanese tourism.

THE introduction of Doha-based Qatar Airways’ Canberra service this week not only means a growing source market from the Australian capital and southern NSW, but more flight options for travellers from Sydney.